The government is initiating steps to combat the effects of global warming. At the same time, it is encouraging Canadians to do their part in reducing their carbon footprint. In line with their efforts, it is implementing incentive programs that will enable homeowners to adopt energy-saving measures, such as government window rebates. It is a known fact that windows and doors are vital in maintaining the energy efficiency of homes. Window rebates can be availed when homeowners upgrade their windows to energy-efficient designs, such as Energy Star. The government initiatives are also encouraging utility companies to contribute their efforts. FortisBC, a major electricity and natural gas distribution utility in the province of British Columbia, offers its Fortis Windows Rebates. The Fortis Rebates are one of many opportunities consumers can enjoy when they meet the necessary eligibility requirements.
Many programs offer incentives to homeowners to upgrade their windows to more efficient units. You may need to get an energy assessment of your home before and after the upgrades, as well as other upgrades, to qualify for the incentives. Take note of these instructions to ensure a smooth process to avail of window rebates.
Part 1:
Called the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Green Home Program, it is a federal government window rebate program. By using CMHC-insured financing, you could get a 15% rebate for building a home to meet Energy Star standards or up to a 25% rebate for a home built to R-2000 building standards. If you installed eligible windows as part of your new build or bought a house that included energy-efficient windows, and at the same time renovated your current home using financing from CMHC, you could qualify for the rebate.
Part 2:
The government window rebates program cascades to the different provinces. Other names do not just call them. These programs vary in terms of the extent of their benefits and specific eligibility requirements. One province may have several complementary programs for particular sectors. As an example, Alberta has the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Rebate Program for new windows and other energy-efficient appliances, the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) loan program catering to seniors for energy efficiency projects, including windows, and an additional energy-saving rebate program, including window replacement for Banff residents.
Part 3:
As it will be difficult to discuss the details of all window rebate programs in all ten provinces, we’re focusing on British Columbia window rebates and Fortis rebates to guide Kelowna residents.
Part 1:
BC’s Home Renovation Rebate Program requires three or more eligible energy-efficient upgrades to your home, including Energy Star windows and doors, for you to get a $750 rebate. You need to replace at least 65% of your windows and/or doors, plus two more upgrades. And you should be using electricity or natural gas as primary heating fuel for the home, and you must be a current Fortis BC or BC Hydro residential customer.
Part 2:
You should provide a minimum of 12 months’ history of your utility. And you are required to live in an eligible home and should complete a pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation with a qualified energy advisor. Also you are given up to 36 months after accomplishing your pre-upgrade review to complete your eligible upgrades and apply for the $750 bonus.
Part 3:
For those who do not qualify, you can avail of the option for low-interest financing energy-efficient upgrades throughout BC through The City of Nelson EcoSave Energy Retrofits Program, RBC Energy Saver™ Loan, or Vancity Energy Saver™ Loan.
Fortis rebates you for home renovation for windows and doors up to $5,000. You can get a $50 rebate per tier 1 window, or for a limited time, get a $200 rebate per tier 2 window or exterior door. The Fortis window rebates program also offers rebates upon the installation of Energy Star-certified doors and windows. You can be eligible for up to $2,300 in bonus rebates if you have two or more high-efficiency upgrades such as windows and doors, insulation, space, water heating, or fireplaces. With this, you can also save $300 on an EnerGuide home evaluation. Fortis window rebates program is the utility company’s initiative in support of the government’s all-embracing program. You can apply online for the Fortis rebate if you meet the requirements and the terms and conditions of the program.
Energy-efficient windows offer a lot of long-term benefits, rather than just rebates. First, they help lower the bills for energy as they increase insulation, and the use of heating and cooling is no longer required. By having better thermal performance, your homes remain at a constant temperature, hence lowering the cost of energy. Aside from being aesthetic, home comfort is also achieved through newly installed windows that eliminate drafts and noise from outside. Also, energy-efficient windows will add value to your property since there are potential buyers who look for homes with sustainable and cost-effective design. In terms of the environment, the windows help to ensure that there is carbon emission reduction since they reduce the energy demands and dependence on non-renewable heating and cooling systems.
There are also some mistakes that people make when submitting window rebates, which may cause delays or even rejection of their application. Many people make the mistake of not submitting all of the necessary documents, like receipts and purchase proof or energy evaluation reports. Another problem is the submitting of windows that do not fall under the rebate program’s specifications, like not being Energy Star certified or not meeting the standards of energy efficiency. In order to avoid delays, ensure that you read all the program guidelines thoroughly and double-check your windows to ensure they meet the requirements. Take proper care to maintain all the records and know the fine print about eligible products and services. By strictly adhering to the requirements, you will be able to make your application for a rebate run without hitches.
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